3 Truths about Technology Addiction

Technology Addiction is Real

In one of the most advanced, free, wealthy and educated nations on the planet we are actively creating new ways to become addicted. Technology addiction is most often associated with social media, video games, and personal electronics. It does include television, although this is more and more through phones and other devices, so the t.v. centric conversation is dwindling.

3 truths to know about technology addiction

1. Choices are the problem

There is a growing body of research showing us that technology is not the problem. We are actively training our brains to need video games to feel excited. Furthermore, we use social media as a type of digital narcotic and look to all of those likes, shares and positive affirmations for a hit of

2. Design doesn’t help

Many games, “educational” tools and social media products are created to give you a positive feedback loop. You do a task so you get a reward so your brain gives you dopamine (your natural “good job!” drug). In order to feel that again you continue doing the tasks you are assigned. As time progresses you need begin to become desensitized. Now to feel good you need:

more success

closer together

for a longer period of time

This is a design for addiction.

3. Freedom is real. It’s also a choice.

Freedom from technology addiction is very real possibility. Research teaches us that freedom from technology addiction requires behavioral and mental changes. We have to be willing to change the way our brains work, where we look for excitement. Through intentional choices, loving support and healthful balance, we can experience powerful positive changes in our lives.

Nathan Sutherland

Nathan is a guy whose heart has been changed by the love of Jesus Christ. This impacts every part of his life: His marriage of 11 years, parenting his two boys, teaching junior high for a decade, volunteering with Young Life as well as writing and speaking about technology.
Nathan has a passion to see young people reach their full potential and believes that a heart changed by the gospel is the most powerful tool possible.
His experience with young people has taught him three critical truths:
1. Everyone is capable of greatness
2. Every choice matters
3. It’s never too late to be great
Nathan uses Gamer Revolution to challenge young people to assess their hearts and choices. Who is in control of your heart: The technology, or God? This focus is the basis of a healthful and balanced life with technology.
Nathan lives in the Seattle area with his wife and two sons.